The Washington Commanders have reached an agreement to sign veteran tight end Zach Ertz to a one-year contract worth up to $5 million, as reported by multiple sources. This move will see Ertz reunite with his former head coach, Kliff Kingsbury, who previously coached him during their time together with the Arizona Cardinals. Kingsbury, now serving as the Commanders’ offensive coordinator, will once again work closely with Ertz as they aim to bolster Washington’s offensive capabilities.
Ertz’s return to Kingsbury’s leadership comes after his three-season stint with the Arizona Cardinals, during which he established himself as a reliable and productive tight end in the NFL. However, in November, Ertz expressed his desire to be released from his contract with the Cardinals, leading to his departure from the team.
Despite briefly joining the Detroit Lions practice squad before the NFC Championship game, Ertz did not make an appearance during the contest. His subsequent signing with the Washington Commanders marks a new chapter in his career, as he looks to make a significant impact with his new team.
While Ertz’s agent and Commanders spokespeople have not yet responded to requests for confirmation, reports indicate that the deal is imminent. The Commanders’ decision to sign Ertz underscores their commitment to strengthening their roster ahead of the upcoming season, with the veteran tight end expected to play a key role in their offensive strategy.
A Super Bowl champion during his time with the Philadelphia Eagles, Ertz brings a wealth of experience and expertise to the Commanders’ lineup. His addition to the team marks the first major acquisition for new Commanders general manager Adam Peters, signaling the team’s intentions to compete at the highest level in the NFC East.
Ertz’s arrival also comes at a time of transition for the Commanders, who recently released several key players, including tight end Logan Thomas and offensive linemen Charles Leno and Nick Gates. As the team looks to rebuild and restructure its roster, Ertz’s signing represents a significant step forward in their offseason plans.
Throughout his NFL career, Ertz has earned three Pro Bowl selections and has appeared in a total of 159 regular-season and playoff games since his debut in 2013. Known for his exceptional receiving ability and versatility as a tight end, Ertz has amassed impressive statistics, including 745 receptions for 7,815 yards and 48 touchdowns over the past decade.
Off the field, Ertz is also recognized for his high-profile marriage to retired USWNT star Julie Ertz, adding to his widespread appeal both within and outside the NFL community. As he embarks on his 14th NFL season, Ertz’s signing with the Washington Commanders is poised to make headlines and generate excitement among fans eager to see him in action.
Looking ahead, the question remains as to who will be throwing passes to Ertz in Washington. With the Commanders holding the second overall pick in the upcoming draft, they have the opportunity to select a promising young quarterback or explore options in free agency. The availability of established quarterbacks like Russell Wilson and Kirk Cousins further adds intrigue to the Commanders’ offseason plans.
In summary, the signing of Zach Ertz by the Washington Commanders represents a significant addition to the team’s roster and a statement of intent as they prepare for the upcoming season. With Ertz bringing his talent, experience, and leadership to the Commanders, fans can look forward to seeing him make a valuable contribution on the field as they strive for success in the NFC East.
